[Photo] Ex-president Lee Myung-bak says he’ll only attend trial when his presence is necessary

After his first trial for a series of corruption charges on May 23, ex-president Lee Myung-bak declared that he will not be attending any more trials other than those that absolutely “require his presence,” citing health reasons for his unwillingness to be present while the prosecution gathers evidence. Lee’s attorneys have submitted a formal request for a trial in absentia. Lee was arrested on March 22 on 12 charges of corruption, including accepting bribes of up to 11 billion won (US$10 million) and embezzling up to 35 billion won (US$32 million). Lee’s lawyers have denied all charges of corruptions being brought against him.